The Unrequited Love Of Sridevi And Rajinikanth: She Fasted For A Week, He Broke His Anniversary Plan

Late actress, Sridevi was more than just the first female superstar in Indian cinema — she was a phenomenon in herself. Her beauty, grace, and versatile acting skills have left an everlasting impression on the industry, making fans across generations fall in love with her. However, out of her huge queue of admirers, one was an unexpected name — a legendary actor and one of her closest co-stars, Rajinikanth.

Let us take you on a trip down memory lane and revisit the time when South cinema’s ‘Thalaivar’ was head over heels in love with Bollywood’s beloved superstar, Sridevi. It is said that Rajinikanth was deeply enamoured with Sridevi but never confessed his feelings due to an unexpected turn of events that he believed to be a bad omen. Despite their strong friendship and successful on-screen chemistry, their love story could never reach its destined conclusion.

Rajinikanth played Sridevi’s son in their first film together

Sridevi and Rajinikanth’s paths crossed for the first time on the sets of the 1976 Tamil romantic thriller film, Moondru Mudichu, directed by K. Balachander. At that time, Sridevi was only 13 years old and played the role of Rajinikanth’s stepmother in the film. This film was a big milestone for both actors as it marked Sridevi’s first leading role and Rajinikanth’s first major role in Tamil cinema. Despite the unusual on-screen relationship, they shared a strong off-screen bond, and Rajinikanth took on a protective role in her life.

Over the years, Sridevi and Rajinikanth worked together in 19 films across multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Their chemistry was adored by fans, and the two soon became one of the most beloved pairs in Indian cinema. Apart from Moondru Mudichu, some of their most notable works were 16 Vayathinile, Johnny, and Pandiyan.

Rajinikanth’s unspoken love for Sridevi

According to several reports, Rajinikanth gradually fell in love with Sridevi as they continued working together. He was very close to her family, especially her mother, and once even expressed his desire to marry Sridevi when she turned 16.

However, fate had other plans. In an old interview, filmmaker, K. Balachander once revealed that Rajinikanth was so serious about his feelings that he decided to visit Sridevi’s house to propose to her. But just as he arrived at her home during a housewarming ceremony, the electricity suddenly went out, leaving the house in darkness.

Being deeply superstitious, Rajinikanth saw this as a bad omen and left without confessing his love. He never brought up the topic again, and eventually, Sridevi went on to marry producer, Boney Kapoor in 1996.

When Sridevi made a week-long fast for Rajinikanth

Sridevi, too, deeply cared for Rajinikanth. When he fell seriously ill during the shooting of Rana, she fasted for seven days and prayed for his recovery. Even after their lives took different paths, their mutual respect and admiration never faded.

Despite his unspoken love, Rajinikanth and Sridevi maintained a strong bond throughout their careers. The fact that Sridevi was one of the select few, including Kamal Haasan, and K. Balachander, who had Rajinikanth’s personal phone number, speaks volumes about their bond.

Rajinikanth’s emotional tribute to Sridevi after her death

On February 24, 2018, the entire nation was left in shock at the news of Sridevi’s untimely demise in Dubai due to accidental drowning in a bathtub after losing consciousness. She was only 54 years old. Rajinikanth, who was in mourning, immediately flew to Mumbai to pay his last respects to the late actress. Taking to his Twitter (now X), the actor mourned Sridevi’s loss in a post that read:

“I’m shocked and very disturbed. I’ve lost a dear friend and the industry has lost a true legend. My heart goes out to her family and friends. I feel the pain with them #RIPSridev ... you will be missed.”

Rajinikanth broke his anniversary tradition after Sridevi’s death

Rajinikanth married Latha Rajinikanth on February 26, 1981. Every year, they have celebrated their anniversary by spending quality time with their daughters and extended family. However, after Sridevi’s death, their 37th wedding anniversary plans took an unexpected turn. The actor cancelled his wedding anniversary celebrations that year to grieve for Sridevi, in respect for his dear friend.

Rajinikanth and Sridevi’s story is one of love, fate, and missed chances. While Rajinikanth may never have confessed his feelings, his actions showed just how much he cared for her. Their chemistry, both on and off-screen, remains legendary, making them one of the most iconic pairs in Indian cinema.

Also Read: Meet Swaroop Sampat, Wife Of Paresh Rawal, Beauty Pageant Winner, Quit Acting To Pursue PhD

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